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Your vehicle’s exhaust system is one of those things you don’t notice… until you
do.

Maybe you’ll smell leaking fluids. Or hear loud clicking and noises from the
engine. Or see a billowing cloud of grey or green smoke lingering behind you on
the road.

When everything is working properly, you’ll hardly ever have a reason to think
about the exhaust system in your vehicle.

So what does the exhaust
system do?

The exhaust system is made up of your
vehicle’s exhaust manifold, catalytic
converter, muffler, and pipes – all
designed to move the waste from the
engine out of the vehicle.

If an engine was 100% efficient, it would combust all of the fuel turning every drop
into power for your vehicle. But because no engine is perfect, leftover fuel is left
behind as exhaust.

Each component in the exhaust system has a specific job, and is designed to
safely move this dangerous chemicals and fumes from your engine and out of the
vehicle.

Exhaust Components

Exhaust Manifold – This component connects to the engine and begins the flow
of exhaust through the pipes and system components.

Catalytic Converter – Exhaust is, in simplest terms, pollution. The catalytic
converter burns off and removes up to 90 percent of the toxins in your engine’s
exhaust.

Muffler – The muffler and resonator address engine sound. Most work to reduce
the noise to keep your car running as quietly as possible. Some custom mufflers are tuned for aggressive or specific tones, providing more sound as you drive
through the city.

Pipes – Once it has traveled through these components, exhaust travels through
remaining pipes to exit the vehicle. This also cools the fumes, but the primary
purpose is traveling through the vehicle.

Exhaust Maintenance
Like every system in your vehicle, the pipes and exhaust components undergo
wear and tear from normal driving conditions. The harsh chemicals in the exhaust
can degrade the interior, while road debris and corrosion cause damage on the
exterior.

Corrosion or loose connections can create
leaks in the exhaust system. If you have a
leak, you’ll likely know right away from these
warning signs:
Exhaust sounds
Loud clicking or knocking
Exhaust smells
Noise from engine

If the leak occurs before the exhaust reaches the catalytic converter, your vehicle
pours the toxic fumes into the atmosphere, which can be dangerous for you, your
passengers, your vehicle, and the environment. Have the leak inspected and
repaired right away.

Call our team of certified technicians if you notice any issues with your vehicles
exhaust, including strange noises, smells, leaks, or visible exhaust. The auto
experts at our Rochester auto repair shop will inspect your vehicle, repair any
leaks or damage, and get you back on the road even faster! Schedule your
appointment online or call 585.242.2360.